Fit test

All disposable respirators that rely on a mask-to-face seal need to be annually checked with either qualitative or quantitative methods to determine whether the mask provides an acceptable fit to a wearer. The qualitative fit test procedures rely on a subjective sensation (taste, irritation, smell) of the respirator wearer to a particular test agent. The quantitative fit test uses measuring instruments to measure face seal leakage. The relative workplace exposure level determines what constitutes an acceptable fit and which fit test procedure is required. The quantitative method exposes the wearer to a fine mist of airborne particles, utilizing a detection system to determine the number of particles outside the respirator versus the number that passed into the wearers breathing zone.